get a handle on (something)

get a handle on (something)

To have a firm, clear understanding or determination of something. Go down to the circuit breaker and see if you can get a handle on what's causing the power outages.I'd gotten a pretty good handle on the concept after spending an hour with the tutor.

get a handle on

get a handle on something

INFORMAL

COMMON If you get a handle on a subject or problem, you understand it and know how to deal with it. When you have got a handle on your anxiety you can begin to control it. Note: You can also say that someone has a handle on a subject or problem to mean that they understand it and know how to deal with it. We don't really have a handle on why some people survive for longer periods than others.

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